Company investigating after boy drowned in a trench

Khato Civils say it will fully cooperate with authorities’ investigations into the death of 6-year-old Nsuku Mhlongo, who allegedly drowned in an open trench at Homu village in Giyani.

The trench was allegedly left open by construction company Khato Civils and it filled up with rain water.

The company says it learned with great shock about the death of the 6-year-old and has instituted an investigation into the incident.

Khato Holdings Group CEO Mongezi Mnyani says there has been no maintenance on the safeguarding of the pipelines since September last year, after it has pulled out from the site due to payment disputes with the employer.

Mnyani says they will however visit the family and offer all the necessary support they might need during this difficult period.

The Gazankulu Liberation Congress has also expressed sadness over the incident.

GLC Secretary General Gift Maswanganyi says those involved should take responsibility for their actions and offer assistance to the family in their time of need.

Mopani District Municipality spokesperson Witness Tiva says they will engage the National Department of Water and Sanitation to ensure that all trenches left open by Khato Civils in Giyani are properly secured.